Music

Nearly every Concord Fight anniversary has included some type of musical performance, ranging from choral hymns to concerts by both local and invited ensembles. Pieces were commissioned especially for the Centennial and Bicentennial celebrations, which allowed local composers to be honored for the two largest celebrations in Concord’s history.

US Marine Band concert program, 1950.

A receipt ensuring payment for the Boston Brass Band's performance at the 1850 celebration.

Transcription: "Concord April 19th, 1850. The Committee on Music for the Celebration at Concord, April 19th, Dr. to the Boston Brass Band for the service of 18 musicians, at five dollars Each. The whole amounting to ninety Dollars. Rec'd Pay't, Eben Flagg Clerk of Boston Brass Band."

Invited Ensembles

Over the years, several notable ensembles have been asked to play in honor of the Concord Fight. In 1850, the Boston Brass Band was invited to perform for the 75th anniversary celebration. The United States Marine Band played concerts at both the 150th and 175th anniversaries in 1925 and 1950, respectively, playing a mix of classical standards and works by American composers.

Conductor's score for "Centennial March," 1875.

Excerpt from Joyce Mekeel’s “Toward the Source,” 1975.

Program for the Concord Orchestra concert at which "Toward the Source" premiered, 1975.

Commissioned Music

For Concord’s two largest anniversary celebrations, music was commissioned for local ensembles to perform. In 1875, composer David Wallis Reeves wrote “Centennial March,” which the Concord Band played during the celebration. Similarly, in 1975, local composer Joyce Mekeel wrote “Toward the Source,” a piece for the combined Concord Orchestra and Concord-Carlisle High School Concert Choir.